Magnetically Programmable Tiles

Pattern Magnetics has developed a neomaterials platform enabling deterministic magnetic field shaping at millimeter scale resolution.


Performance Specifications

  • Permanent - No fading
  • Passive - No power needed
  • Programmable - Arrays to your specifications
  • 40-80 Gauss controlled micro-fields
  • Contained within millimeter-scale columns
  • Less than 5 Gauss only millimeters from active peaks
  • Repeatable peaks and valleys geometry
  • Digitally defined pattern precision
  • Standard Size of 1.25" (31.75mm) but fully customizable

Why Magnetic Patterns are Superior to Magnetic Stripes

True 2D Spatial Encoding vs. Linear Data Track

Magnetic stripe technology stores data in a single linear track that must be swiped past a read head at controlled speed and alignment.

Pattern Magnetics Advantage:

  • Two-dimensional programmable geometry
  • No swipe direction requirement
  • Orientation can be encoded in pattern itself
  • Higher geometric complexity per surface area

This allows richer spatial encoding and eliminates mechanical alignment constraints inherent to stripe systems.

Greater Physical Robustness

Magnetic stripes rely on thin surface-deposited magnetic coatings that are vulnerable to abrasion, demagnetization, and wear.

Pattern Magnetics Advantage:

  • Embedded magnetized regions within molded cavities
  • Can be sealed under protective coatings
  • Resistant to surface scratches
  • More difficult to erase with casual magnetic exposure

The magnetic pattern is volumetric rather than surface-layer dependent, improving durability in field conditions.

Increased Resistance to Conventional Skimming and Rewriting

Magnetic stripes store data in standardized formats that can be read and rewritten with widely available hardware.

Pattern Magnetics Advantage:

  • No standardized read/write protocol
  • Requires spatial magnetic field mapping
  • Replication demands physical fabrication, not simple rewriting
  • No simple “overwrite” mechanism

Unlike stripe media, which can often be cloned or re-encoded with consumer equipment, Pattern Magnetics patterns require physical reconstruction to duplicate.


Magnetic stripe technology is optimized for low-cost, swipe-based financial data storage. Pattern Magnetics technology is optimized for spatial encoding, durability, and secure physical authentication. The architectural differences provide meaningful advantages in security-focused and high-reliability environments.